03/09/2026
Politics In Africa
BREAKING NEWS | SOMALIA 🇸🇴
Former Somali Prison Commander Mahad Struck by Rocket in Doolow . Somalia-Ethiopia border city.
Major General Mahad Abdirahman Aden, the former commander of the Somali Custodial Corps, has been struck by a rocket in Doolow, Gedo region, according to local media reports.
The attack on Mahad has been confirmed, but it remains unclear who launched the rocket. The identity of those responsible has not been established, and it may be difficult to determine the source of the attack amid the ongoing military and political tensions in the area.
Mahad was recently removed from his position as commander of the Somali Custodial Corps amid a growing dispute between the Federal Government of Somalia and South West State. His dismissal became part of a wider political crisis surrounding the leadership of South West State.
Following the departure of former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen and the emergence of a new administration, Mahad and militia forces aligned with the former South West leadership reportedly regrouped in Doolow.
The forces have since been reported to be preparing for or supporting military operations against the new South West administration, with Baidoa, the temporary capital of South West State, remaining at the centre of the confrontation.
The latest incident comes amid an escalating security situation in South West State. Fighting was reported around Baidoa today between Somali government forces and militias aligned with Laftagareen. The Associated Press reported that Bay Regional Hospital treated dozens of wounded following the clashes.
Meanwhile, reports have also emerged concerning the presence of Turkish F-16 fighter jets in Somali airspace around Baidoa, adding another dimension to the rapidly developing situation.
At this stage, there is no confirmed evidence identifying who fired the rocket that struck Mahad.
Politics In Africa will continue to follow developments in Doolow, Baidoa and the wider South West State crisis.
